A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 45 LONG COLT AMMO
The .45 Long Colt cartridge, often simply called 45 Colt, traces its roots back to 1872 when it was developed by Colt’s Manufacturing Company for use in the iconic Colt Single Action Army revolver. Adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873, it quickly became a defining firearm of the American West, earning legendary status among shooters, cowboys, and collectors. Known for its powerful stopping ability, moderate recoil, and versatility, the 45 Long Colt remains popular in revolvers and lever-action rifles today.
Modern 45 Long Colt ammo typically features bullets ranging from 200 to 255 grains, with original military loads built around a 250-grain lead bullet propelled by black powder. Advances in smokeless powder have enhanced performance, offering shooters options like lead round nose (LRN), semi-wadcutter (SWC), jacketed hollow point (JHP), and even polymer-tipped rounds. This flexibility makes the cartridge ideal for target shooting, cowboy action competitions, deer hunting, and personal defense when loaded appropriately.
A common question among shooters is: What’s the difference between 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt? Functionally, they are the same cartridge. The term "Long" was historically used to differentiate it from the shorter .45 Schofield cartridge, but today 45 Colt and 45 Long Colt are interchangeable terms in ammunition manufacturing and casual use.
Brands like Hornady offer innovative options such as the LEVERevolution series, boosting velocity and energy for lever-action rifles. Meanwhile, traditional loads from companies like Black Hills Ammunition provide authentic cowboy action shooting experiences with black powder equivalent loads—perfect for those seeking a true Old West feel.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 45 LONG COLT AMMO
When selecting 45 Long Colt ammo, it’s important to match the load to your firearm and your intended shooting activity. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Purpose: Define your primary goal. For cowboy action shooting and target practice, lead round nose (LRN) and semi-wadcutter (SWC) bullets deliver excellent accuracy and maintain the traditional shooting experience. For hunting or personal defense, opt for jacketed hollow points (JHP) or flat-nose bullets, which offer enhanced penetration, energy transfer, and stopping power.
Bullet Type: The choice of bullet type greatly influences performance. Lead bullets are traditional, reliable at standard velocities, and ideal for historical shooting or cowboy competitions. Jacketed bullets reduce barrel fouling and handle higher velocities—making them a better fit for modern 45 Long Colt lever-action rifles or defensive revolvers.
Manufacturer Reputation: Stick with trusted brands known for consistency and performance. Federal, Winchester, and Remington offer dependable 45 Colt ammunition for a variety of uses. For cutting-edge options, Hornady’s LEVERevolution loads push the limits with enhanced ballistics, while Black Hills Ammunition delivers premium cowboy loads for those seeking authentic, low-pressure performance.
Firearm Compatibility: Not all firearms chambered in 45 Long Colt can handle modern high-pressure loads. If you own a vintage Colt Single Action Army, replica, or other antique revolver, stick with lower-pressure rounds to preserve the firearm. Newer revolvers and rifles designed for stronger loads can safely take advantage of modern high-performance ammunition.
Reloading: The 45 Long Colt is a favorite among reloaders due to its flexibility. Whether you're crafting low-recoil cowboy action rounds or high-power hunting loads, there’s a wide selection of bullets, powders, and primers available to customize your shooting experience.
THE 45 LONG COLT AMMO "ROUND UP"
Whether you're honoring the legacy of the Old West or seeking a dependable cartridge for hunting, defense, or cowboy action shooting, our collection of 45 Long Colt ammo offers something for every shooter. This caliber’s lasting popularity speaks to its unique blend of power, accuracy, and versatility across a wide range of firearms. At Target Sports USA, we proudly offer 45 Long Colt ammunition for sale from trusted brands like Hornady, Remington, Winchester, and Federal, ensuring you find the right match for your revolver or rifle. Whether you're shooting traditional loads or modern high-performance options, you can trust our selection to deliver reliable performance with every pull of the trigger.